NHTSA complaint #11696068

Owner complaint summary

The vehicle intermittently loses power and displayed “Engine Malfunction/ Service Now” warnings beginning several months ago. Diagnostic code U0652 (Lost Communication with EGR System) was recorded. This failure was later confirmed by a Nissan dealer, who identified a faulty EGR valve and differential-pressure sensor, with low coolant and internal coolant loss (no external leaks). During review with Nissan’s regional case manager, engine contamination was noted as a factor, yet this information was never disclosed to me by the dealership. The EGR valve, cooler, and sensors share coolant and exhaust pathways with the engine, meaning contamination within those circuits can block sensors and cause drivability loss or limp-mode events — exactly what occurred. Despite these findings, Nissan classified the issue as “unrelated” to Recall R25A8, which involves internal bearing debris and coolant contamination capable of circulating through those same systems. Nissan offered to cover only 50% of repair costs and refused to provide their decision in writing. Nissan’s recall inspection procedure requires removal of the oil pan and inspection for debris, which was never performed. I was provided an oil sample after diagnosis - proof that the pan was not dropped. This raises concerns that Nissan failed to follow the prescribed recall diagnostic process. Additionally, I have been forced to personally pay hundreds of dollars for a rental vehicle because Nissan stated rental reimbursement would not be provided until the repair is completed, despite the vehicle being undrivable due to the recall-related defect. I do not feel comfortable proceeding with the repair or continuing to drive the vehicle in its current condition, as the underlying recall issue has not been properly addressed or resolved. This defect poses a serious safety risk due to potential engine failure, sudden power loss, and internal coolant contamination that could lead to further mechanical damage or fire.